A business analyst is a person who deals with the collection of data, analysis and modelling on a day to day basis. Today, everything is integrated with technology so there is no doubt even a single, simple and efficient business analytics tool can help simplify the role of business analysts by forming the basis for effective business analysis tasks more quickly and accurately.
What is the need for business analysis tools?
Good business analysis tools help perform the following functions smoothly and efficiently:
- Track requirements
- Manage requirements
- Describe the requirements in detail
- Model these requirements wherever feasible
- Collaborate with team members and stakeholders
Since a business analyst can’t adapt to all business analytics tools in the market, here is a list of the best analysis tools that should be used by all organizations:
Tool # 1: Microsoft Office Suite
The Microsoft Office Suite consists of:
- MS PowerPoint
MS PowerPoint is used to prepare and deliver formal presentations. A business analyst often has to communicate and justify his/her ideas in order to deliver the project updated to stakeholders. The communication becomes more effective and appealing with the use of MS PowerPoint.
- MS Excel
MS Excel is a data analysis tool that can be used in the form of pivot tables, examination of trends in data, sort and filter the data, and creating charts or graphs for a pictorial representation of data.
Excel also provides several other mathematical and financial functions which come in handy when you have to handle a large group of data.
- MS Word
With MS Word organizations can create their own specific format and templates for documenting the requirements. Basically, it is a utility application that allows user-preferred fonts, themes, smart arts, and diagrams.
- MS Visio
MS Visio is a modelling tool used to effectively capture ideas in the form of business functions and user interactions. Main functions of Visio include:
- Preparation of process flow charts
- Creation of data models
- Generation of architecture diagrams
Tool # 2: Rational Requisite Pro
Considered among one of the best business analysis tools for requirement management, the tool helps provide a strong and healthy solution for business requirements of large projects. It offers the functionality of word processing, querying and sorting data using a dynamic database that makes tracing requirements easy along with their changes and priority.
Tool # 3: Balsamiq
Balsamiq is used for projects that demand wireframing applications to showcase mockups of a proposed system. It focuses on content and user interaction. Balsamiq is among the top business analysis tools used to create wireframes. The tool brainstorms the sessions, presents mockups using PDF along with embedded links and provides immediate feedback from the stakeholders.
Try These Amazing Business Analytics Tools and Feel the Difference
All these business analytics tools help make the role of business analysts smarter, efficient and successful. However, to become a successful business analyst, you need to gain the core skills used for business analysis. Business analytics certifications can provide an excellent roadmap to learn the best business analysis practices. These business analytics certifications give you exposure to practice with some of the best business analytics tools.
More Information:
Guidelines for a Successful Business Management Career
Career Prospects After Pursuing a Business Management Course
Leadership And Management In New Age Business from WHARTON
Global Master Certificate In Business Analytics from MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY
Global Professional Certificate In Effective Leadership & Management from MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY
